Work with mountain bikers, not close trails

• Published December 16, 2012 Modified December 15, 2012

0 comments

On April 2, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) closed all trails on Maple Falls, on the north fork of the Nooksack River near Bellingham. Maple Falls is a network of downhill trails that mountain bikers say is among the best in the world. People have traveled to the Northwest from all around the world just to ride downhill trails there.

The DNR is closing the trails because they were built without permits and the agency cannot ensure public safety. DNR said the bridges and structures were built without engineering design. There are no formal agreements about maintenance, and there is no liability coverage.

The DNR was concerned about erosion but the mountain bikers building the trails built bridges over all creeks and places where erosion might occur.

In Capitol Forest, the DNR has already taken some trails out and is looking at others. Maybe DNR could issue permits to mountain biking organizations that want to build trails on DNR land.

jack waeschle

Olympia

Similar stories:

Biking trail may open in July at Tacoma's Swan Creek Park

Biking trail may open in July at Tacoma's Swan Creek Park

A lot of stump removal, brush clearing and trail blazing is in the works at Tacoma’s Swan Creek Park, which outdoor enthusiasts say will be exciting news for South Sound mountain bikers.
Pack critters help prepare Capitol Forest trails

Pack critters help prepare Capitol Forest trails

Most of the loads carried by animals during the Great Gravel Pack-in at Capitol State Forest Saturday were about 180 pounds, according to Darrell Wallace, executive director of the Back County Horsemen of Washington.
Kincaid to get 6 miles of fresh mountain bike trails

Kincaid to get 6 miles of fresh mountain bike trails

The plan will add six miles of new single-track trails -- so-called because they are about the width of a single cyclist -- to the nine miles of trail already at Kincaid.
Progress afoot for those who walk, run and ride

Progress afoot for those who walk, run and ride

From the shores of Commencement Bay to the foothills of Mount Rainier, more opportunities for recreation are falling into place.
Santa’s coming to town with plenty of vroom

Santa’s coming to town with plenty of vroom

Thousands of motorcycles are expected to descend on downtown Olympia on Saturday for about two hours, part of the annual Olympia Toy Run. Festivities kick off at 10 a.m. at South Sound Center, in Lacey, with the riders leaving for downtown Olympia at 1 p.m.